Read This Before You Rake!

If sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, or breathing problems haunt you while everyone else is enjoying a gorgeous fall day, don't automatically blame pollen or the common cold.

Research from France reveals that one of the most common autumn-growing molds in the US, Alternaria alternata, is a risk factor for allergic reactions and severe asthma (The Jour. of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Apr 1999). Previous studies have also linked high levels of Alternaria (a black mold that thrives on decomposing leaves) to increased asthma attacks in the fall.

If your allergies or asthma act up more than usual during the autumn months, Alternaria could be the culprit. One clue: if you're still bothered even after a hard frost. (Ragweed and other plant allergens disappear after a deep freeze, but Alternaria doesn't.) To confirm, see an allergist for a skin-prick test.